Could we begin the change the world so desperately needs?

NIMBY means “Not In My Back Yard,” currently a term used for people considered to selfishly protest development.

Developers provide archeologists that report to the State Historic Preservation Department. Archeology is the study of human history through the analysis of artifact and other physical remains.

Understandably, archeologists sometimes don’t discover or identify sacred places. How could they? “Faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we don’t see” (Hebrews).

Through decades of neglect and abuse in Hawaii, archeological evidence has been destroyed. Oral history and documentation are ignored. It’s evident in Lahaina’s Kahoma development.

A cultural history overview of Kahoma was produced for the Corps of Engineers in 1979. Here’s documented proof of events and individuals associated with the property: www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/ a128221.pdf.

Stanford Carr’s Kahoma Village subdivision is under construction. Does it seem right that the county issues permits for the project when the Maui Planning Commission is party in a pending court appeal?

It’s typical protocol in Hawaii. Before judgment is rendered, the damage is done. How are Hawaiians supposed to protect their culture and history? How do you restore what’s been destroyed?

“Consider Him (Jesus) who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

Change happens when NIMBY becomes our response to injustice, oppression and suffering. Imagine everyone in their area of influence practicing “pono policy” — do what is right!

Michele Lincoln

Lahaina